PM Modi to attend G7 Summit in France, with Global South priorities and Trump talks on agenda

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the G7 Summit in France on June 16-17, where he is expected to champion the concerns of the Global South and hold talks with US President Donald Trump amid recent strains in India-US relations.

The summit, being held in Evian under France’s presidency of the Group of Seven, marks the eighth consecutive G7 gathering to which India has been invited, underscoring New Delhi’s growing global influence.

Global South priorities

Ahead of his Europe visit, Modi said India would use the G7 platform to amplify the aspirations and concerns of developing nations.

“India’s presence at the G7 reflects the trust our partners place in us and our growing global profile. At the G7, India will not only speak for itself, but it will also give voice to the aspirations of the Global South,” the prime minister said.

India has increasingly positioned itself as a leading voice for developing countries, advocating for greater representation in global institutions and pushing reforms of multilateral bodies, including the United Nations Security Council.

Modi-Trump meeting likely

A key focus of the summit is expected to be Modi’s meeting with Trump, which the White House has indicated will take place on the sidelines of the gathering.

The talks come against the backdrop of recent tensions between New Delhi and Washington, including India’s protests over attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian mariners in the Gulf of Oman, tariff-related disputes, and differences over India’s continued imports of Russian oil.

Despite these issues, both countries are working toward finalising a bilateral trade agreement, with officials indicating negotiations are nearing completion.

Key issues at G7

Leaders are expected to discuss major geopolitical developments, including the war in Ukraine, the conflict in West Asia, global economic challenges and the future regulation of artificial intelligence.

The G7 comprises Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union.

In addition to India, several invited partner countries, including China, Brazil, Kenya and South Korea, are expected to participate in the summit.